Activists Voice Opposition to Proposed Mega Homeless Shelter at Community Board Meeting in Crown Heights

In a recent gathering, activists from the Crown Heights Jewish and African American communities united to express their opposition to a proposed “Mega” homeless shelter during the Brooklyn Community Board 9 (CB9) land use meeting. The activists voiced concerns that the shelter, backed by local officials, disregarded the community’s apprehensions. They argued that the neighborhood, already home to several shelters, would be overwhelmed by the influx of individuals, potentially exacerbating existing issues.

Leading the charge for the Crown Heights Jewish community and the broader neighborhood were NYS Assembly candidate Ahron Gluck, community board member Benny Rosenberger, advocate Jay Sorid, and a coalition of community activists from both the Lubavitcher and African American communities. Their advocacy highlights a pressing community-wide issue: the fear that the new shelter would significantly increase the number of residents in the area, many of whom are perceived to be emotionally and mentally unstable.

The opposition is particularly concerned about the impact on public safety, as they believe the shelter could bring an increase in criminal activity. Despite these concerns, Assemblyman Brian Cunningham, a staunch supporter of the shelter, did not attend the meeting to engage with community feedback. This absence was noted by those advocating for the community’s interests.

Ahron Gluck, campaigning for the NYS Assembly, expressed his dedication to collaborating with CB9 to explore ways to halt or relocate the shelter. Meanwhile, an African American resident raised concerns about Assemblyman Cunningham’s support for the shelter, suggesting that his actions are influenced by lobbyist donations, which they argue neglect the needs of his predominantly black and brown constituents living near Clarkson Ave.

The Vaad Hakohol, representing community interests, recently questioned the city council’s decision to bypass a mandatory community hearing on the shelter, a step they argue was necessary to consider residents’ input. This move has galvanized community members to consider supporting candidates like Gluck, who advocate for their concerns, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in public policy decisions. As the community navigates these challenges, they are reminded of the biblical call to care for the vulnerable, as seen in Matthew 25:35, which encourages looking beyond immediate concerns to broader acts of mercy and justice.

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